IT seems to me the only gain the Mercedes 300SLK has over its supercharged 2.0-litre brother is about a second in the time to 60 miles an hour.

But that extra second costs £3,000 and seems a bit of an indulgence in anyone's book.

The 300 does have a beautifully quiet and refined 3.0-litre V6 and this has marvellous reserves of power for all eventualities.

But the seven-speed automatic gearbox is an extra £1,645. No-one ever buys a manual Mercedes at this level so why is it not standard?

Of course, any Mercedes - and especially the coupe/convertibles - are a very good investment compared to other cars, holding onto more of their value over time.

The ride is very good, but the handling, though always capable, is not that of a sportscar - more a grand tourer built for long distances.

The body is very strong, allowing none of the flex that happens in other open cars and when the electric roof is up the occupants are cocooned in comfort.

The car is generally well equipped, but the Airscarf system, which keeps the neck warm with the roof down is an extra, and only available along with heated seats and leather.

: 8/10

: Peugeot RCZ